Crime Drops In Public Schools

MIAMI (AP) - Crimes and homicides at the nation's public school have declined, part of a downward trend seen over the past several years.

Data released Wednesday by the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Justice show declines across a number of indicators, including thefts, violent crimes, bullying and gang activity.

There were 33 homicides on school grounds during the 2009-10 academic year. That's the lowest number since the agencies began recording data in 1992. In the previous school year, there were 38 violent deaths.

The proportion of students ages 12 to 18 who reported being bullied at school has declined from 32 to 28 percent.

Cyber bullying, however, has risen from 4 to 6 percent, one of the few areas with an increase.